What are the potential health effects of methylene chloride?

Main Routes of Exposure: Inhalation; skin contact; eye contact.

Inhalation: TOXIC, can cause death. Can irritate the nose and throat. Can harm the nervous system. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness and confusion. Methylene chloride form carbon monoxide in the body. Can harm the blood (decreased ability to carry oxygen).

Skin Contact: SKIN IRRITANT. Causes moderate to severe irritation. Symptoms include pain, redness, and swelling.Can be absorbed through the skin, but harmful effects are not expected.

Eye Contact: Avoid direct contact. Wear chemical protective gloves if necessary. Immediately flush the contaminated eye(s) with lukewarm, gently flowing water for 15-20 minutes, while holding the eyelid(s) open. If a contact lens is present, DO NOT delay flushing or attempt to remove the lens. If irritation or pain persists, see a doctor.

First Aid Comments: If exposed or concerned, see a doctor for medical advice. All first aid procedures should be periodically reviewed by a doctor familiar with the chemical and its conditions of use in the workplace.

What are accidental release measures for methylene chloride?

Methods for Containment and Clean-up: Do not touch spilled material. Stop or reduce leak if safe to do so. Ventilate the area to prevent the gas from accumulating, especially in confined spaces. Small spills or leaks: contain and soak up spill with absorbent that does not react with spilled product. Place used absorbent into suitable, covered, labelled containers for disposal. Contaminated absorbent poses the same hazard as the spilled product. Large spills or leaks: contact emergency services and manufacturer/supplier for advice.

Other Information: Contact supplier, local fire and emergency services for help.

What handling and storage practices should be used when working with methylene chloride?

Handling: Before handling, it is important that all engineering controls are operating and that protective equipment requirements and personal hygiene measures are being followed. Only trained personnel should work with this product. In event of a spill or leak, immediately put on escape-type respirator and exit the area. Immediately report leaks, spills or failures of the safety equipment (e.g. ventilation system). Avoid generating vapours or mists. Prevent accidental contact with incompatible chemicals. Do not use near welding operations or other high energy sources. Do not weld, cut or perform hot work on empty container until all traces of product have been removed.

Storage: Store in an area that is: cool, dry, well-ventilated, out of direct sunlight and away from heat and ignition sources, separate from incompatible materials. Keep amount in storage to a minimum. Store in the original, labelled, shipping container. Avoid bulk storage indoors.

What is the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH®) recommended exposure limit for methylene chloride?

What are the engineering controls for methylene chloride?

Engineering Controls: Do not allow product to accumulate in the air in work or storage areas, or in confined spaces. Use a local exhaust ventilation and enclosure, if necessary, to control amount in the air. Provide eyewash and safety shower if contact or splash hazard exists.

What Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is needed when working with methylene chloride?

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